Maybe look at this answer from AvareX and then decide if AI is not for you.
Question - give me the best altitude for my flight plan and given aircraft.
Based on your flight plan, aircraft, and the provided weather data, here is a recommendation for the best cruising altitude.
### 1. Flight Plan & Aircraft Summary
* **Aircraft:** Cessna 172S Skyhawk SP (Based on the provided Pilot's Operating Handbook).
* **Route:** KBOS (Boston, MA) to KHFD (Hartford, CT).
* **Distance:** Approximately 87 NM.
* **Magnetic Course:** Approximately 245°, which is a **westerly** direction of flight.
### 2. Analysis
**VFR Cruising Altitude Rule (FAR 91.159):**
For a VFR flight on a magnetic course between 180° and 359°, you must maintain an **even thousand-foot altitude plus 500 feet** (e.g., 4,500', 6,500', 8,500' MSL).
**Winds Aloft:**
The winds are favorable at all potential altitudes, providing a significant tailwind.
* **3,000 ft:** 260° @ 23 kts
* **6,000 ft:** 260° @ 21 kts
* **9,000 ft:** 270° @ 32 kts
* **12,000 ft:** 260° @ 41 kts
**Aircraft Performance (Cessna 172S):**
* The service ceiling is 14,000 feet, making all standard VFR altitudes below this achievable.
* As a normally aspirated aircraft, the Cessna 172S achieves better true airspeed (TAS) and fuel efficiency (Nautical Miles Per Gallon) at higher altitudes, with a "sweet spot" typically between 6,000 and 9,000 feet. The POH specifies a cruise speed of **124 KTAS at 8,500 feet** (75% power).
* For a short flight of ~87 NM, the time spent climbing is a significant factor and can offset the time saved from a stronger tailwind.
### 3. Altitude Options & Recommendation
Here’s a breakdown of the most practical options:
| Altitude | Pros | Cons |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **4,500' MSL** | • **Fastest overall trip time** due to short climb.<br>• Still benefits from a good tailwind (~22 kts). | • Less fuel efficient.<br>• More likely to encounter turbulence and other VFR traffic. |
| **6,500' MSL** | • **Excellent balance** of speed, efficiency, and comfort.<br>• Stronger tailwind (~26 kts) and better fuel economy than 4,500'.<br>• Moderate climb time for this distance. | • Slightly longer total time than 4,500'. |
| **8,500' MSL** | • **Most fuel-efficient cruise** and a very strong tailwind (~32 kts).<br>• Takes advantage of the 172S's optimal cruise performance.<br>• Likely the smoothest ride. | • The longer climb time will make this the slowest option for this short flight. |
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### **Primary Recommendation: 6,500 feet MSL**
This altitude provides the best overall balance for your flight. You will take advantage of a strong tailwind and smoother air, resulting in good groundspeed and fuel efficiency, without the significant time penalty of climbing to a higher altitude on this relatively short leg.
#### **Alternative Recommendations:**
* **For the Fastest Trip:** Choose **4,500 feet MSL**. If minimizing your total flight time is the top priority and you are comfortable with a potentially bumpier ride, this will be your quickest option.
* **For Maximum Efficiency & Comfort:** Choose **8,500 feet MSL**. If fuel savings and the smoothest possible ride are your main goals, and you don't mind adding approximately 5-10 minutes to your total flight time, this altitude takes full advantage of both the aircraft's performance and the favorable winds.
**Note on Higher Altitudes:** Altitudes of 10,500' or 12,500' are not recommended for this short distance. The extended climb time would negate any wind advantage, and flights above 12,500' for more than 30 minutes would legally require the use of supplemental oxygen.